Non-linear Torsion Bar Torque for Powered Vehicle Closures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle closure systems, such as those using torsion bars, produce linear torque outputs, which may not efficiently assist in the closing mechanism of vehicle closures like tailgates, as the torque output does not provide sufficient assistance throughout the pivoting motion, especially when the closure is fully raised.
Innovation Solution
A torque device is integrated into the vehicle closure system, utilizing eccentric gears and cam mechanisms to generate a non-linear torsion bar torque output, ensuring that the torsion bar twists differently based on the vehicle closure's position, providing additional assistance throughout the pivoting motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a linear torsion bar is used in the vehicle closure system, then the structure is simple, but the torque output is insufficient throughout the pivoting motion especially when the closure is fully raised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the torque output parameter from linear to non-linear by introducing a torque device with cam mechanism and eccentric gears. This transforms the constant stiffness characteristic of a linear torsion bar into a variable stiffness system where the torque output varies non-linearly with the closure position, providing higher torque when needed (at fully raised position) and lower torque when not needed (at closed position).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a torque device as an intermediary component between the torsion bar and the closure mechanism. This torque device includes a cam mechanism and eccentric gears that mediate the relationship between the torsion bar rotation and the closure position, transforming the linear torque output into a non-linear torque output that better matches the closing assistance requirements.
2Productivity
If a non-linear torque output is generated using eccentric gears and cam mechanisms, then the closing mechanism efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the torque device with the existing closure system components. The torque device is integrated into the linkage mechanism, sharing common components such as the torsion bar, brackets, and pivot points. This combining approach allows the non-linear torque output functionality to be added without proportionally increasing the overall device complexity, as the torque device utilizes and coordinates with existing structural elements.
3Ease of operation
If the torsion bar provides constant torque throughout the motion, then the system is simple, but manual effort is not reduced effectively especially when the closure is fully raised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the counterweight principle by designing the torque device to provide opposing torque that counteracts the weight of the closure panel. The cam mechanism and eccentric gears are configured to generate a non-linear torque profile that specifically counterbalances the gravitational force on the closure at different positions, providing maximum assistance when the closure is fully raised (where manual effort is most needed) and minimum assistance when the closure is closed (where less force is required).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a static, constant torque system to a dynamic, variable torque system. The torque device continuously adjusts the torque output based on the closure position, with the cam mechanism and eccentric gears creating a dynamic torque profile that adapts to the changing mechanical advantages and gravitational forces throughout the pivoting motion. This dynamic adjustment significantly reduces manual effort across the entire range of motion.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The non-linear torque output enhances the closing mechanism by providing a positive or negative torque at the start and increasing torque as the closure is raised, improving the balance and ease of operation, reducing manual effort and wear on components.
Implementation Method 1
a torsion bar fixed to both the vehicle frame and the vehicle closure, and a torque device coupled to the torsion bar, wherein the torque device is configured to generate a non-linear torsion bar torque output
Implementation Method 2
The torque device includes an eccentric driving gear, and an eccentric moving gear configured to be fixed to the torsion bar and configured to be driven by the eccentric driving gear
Data Source
AI summary
A powered vehicle closure system includes a vehicle frame, a vehicle closure pivotally coupled to the vehicle frame, a torsion bar fixed to both the vehicle frame and the vehicle closure, and a torque device coupled to the torsion bar, wherein the torque device is configured to generate a non-linear torsion bar torque output as the vehicle closure pivots relative to the vehicle frame.